To raise big money for its fight to eliminate cancer, the American Cancer Society chose an exciting venue, outstanding chairs and a dazzling program featuring Natalie Cole for its 2009 Discovery Ball.Led by W. James McNerney, chairman, president and CEO of Boeing Co., and his wife, Haity, plus a terrific group of vice-chairs, the star-spangled evening at the Civic Opera House did not disappoint.

To raise big money for its fight to eliminate cancer, the American Cancer Society chose an exciting venue, outstanding chairs and a dazzling program featuring Natalie Cole for its 2009 Discovery Ball.

Led by W. James McNerney, chairman, president and CEO of Boeing Co., and his wife, Haity, plus a terrific group of vice-chairs, the star-spangled evening at the Civic Opera House did not disappoint.

Beginning with cocktails and a staggering silent auction packed with trips, dining experiences, artworks, tickets to sporting events, jewelry, airline tickets and personal services, guests packed the lobby to sip and bid. Small hand-held electronic devices allowed guests to follow bidding on a giant screen and continue bidding from their tables during dinner.

After cocktails, the 800 guests were ushered into the auditorium, where a floor had been constructed over the seats to provide a stunning setting for dinner, a live auction with even more amazing offerings, and entertainment by Ms. Cole. To keep things moving, CNBC’s Maria Bartiromo served as emcee.

“We’re very excited about the record-breaking $2 million-plus we’ve managed to raise,” Mr. McNerney said, adding that the results were “that much more exciting because of the economy.”

May 15, 2014

A lotta night music: That's what Mozart might have called Merit School of Music's 35th anniversary celebration, held May 8 at the Palmer House Hilton. From cocktails through dinner, live music performed by students from the West Side school filled the air.